Funded Aquaculture Initiatives

The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) has launched a new research project aimed at promoting sustainable aquaculture in the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative, part of the AQUADAPT project, seeks to develop greener innovations for the aquaculture sector, which is crucial for meeting the rising global demand for fish and seafood1. The project focuses on nature-based solutions to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity, while supporting climate-vulnerable communities.

The AQUADAPT project involves collaboration with the Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific and FutureFish, and is supported by Global Affairs Canada. Researchers are working on identifying and scaling innovations such as fish feeds made from agricultural waste and algae-based alternatives to shrimp antibiotics. The project also aims to develop national innovation and investment plans in collaboration with governments in Fiji, the Philippines, and Thailand, to ensure the aquaculture sector moves towards more sustainable practices.

Eduardo Leaño, project leader and director-general of the Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific, highlights the importance of demonstrating the effectiveness of these innovations at the farm level to encourage private sector investment. The project's ultimate goal is to make aquaculture both greener and more profitable, benefiting large aqua-businesses as well as small-scale farmers who supply local food markets. By fostering multisector partnerships and inclusive technologies, the project aims to create a more resilient and sustainable aquaculture sector in the Asia-Pacific region.

Image Credit: IDRC, BARTAY